01 · Evidence context
What the rating actually records
The score comes from an animal screening method used to compare raw materials, not from a modern clinical trial of every formula containing ethylhexyl palmitate. Translation to facial skin and everyday concentrations is uncertain.
The number is retained as a historical observation. The site does not convert it into a current clinical probability or a complete-product grade.
02 · Formulation context
Why the complete formula can differ
Ingredient order may offer rough concentration context above the one-percent threshold, but a label does not reveal exact percentages or vehicle effects. A finished product can behave differently from an isolated raw material screen.
03 · Practical takeaway
How to use this result proportionately
Use this match as one piece of evidence, especially when comparing products that you have personally tolerated differently. Do not stop a prescribed treatment based only on this historical rating.
If you compare products, change one routine variable at a time and use the label from the product currently in hand.
04 · Primary source
Comedogenicity and irritancy of commonly used ingredients in skin care products
Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists, 40, 321-333 · Primary rabbit-ear screening study
Ingredients were generally tested at 10% in a rabbit-ear model. The paper calls the assay extremely sensitive, reports source and vehicle effects, and says the survey is not definitive or a substitute for finished-formula and human evidence.
Open source record ↗